With Guerschon Yabusele gone, it seemed like the 15th spot on the Celtics roster was a simple decision. Slide Tacko Fall in. But as much as there’s promise there, he still needs to get some work in the G League, and Boston already used both of its two-way contracts on Max Strus and Tremont Waters. If one of them were to have their deals converted into an NBA contract to take the final roster spot, Boston could offer Fall a two-way deal.
Otherwise, if the Celtics try to keep Fall, they’ll have to waive him and offer him a deal with their G League affiliate, the Maine Red Claws. Fall going to Maine — or perhaps finding a better offer with another organization — seems more likely with a recent report indicating the Celtics may sign another free agent, who would likely be a big man.
If the Celtics were to sign another post, it would have to be on a minimum contract given their salary cap situation. Here are five bigs the Celtics could add on that type of deal:
Nene Hilario
More commonly known by his first name alone, Nene isn’t exactly a spring chicken by NBA standards. And he’s battled injuries over the last few seasons. But he’s a defensive-minded player who’s still effective and isn’t looking to get a ton of minutes.
Pau Gasol
The four-time All NBA big man is another fossil (he’s even older than Nene). But he’s eager to get back in the game after suffering a stress fracture in his left foot last season. He may not be able to play 20-plus minutes a game like he was for the Spurs, but Gasol is a veteran presence who’s had a lot of success in this league and could help the younger Celtics develop.
Joakim Noah
The final player on this list who’s up there in age — though not as old as Nene or Gasol — Noah is grit and defense. If the Celtics have any apprehension about Vincent Poirier, Noah could actually be of some assistance. Much like Nene and Gasol, Noah doesn’t need a ton of minutes.
Kenneth Faried
Faried is a fun player to watch on the offensive end, but there’s a reason he’d be available on a veteran’s minimum at 29. He doesn’t stretch the floor at 6-foot-8 and isn’t a great defender. He can help with rebounding, which has been a need for the C’s in the past.
Cheick Diallo
This guy is last on the list because I’m assuming most people don’t know him like the other four, but Diallo is a player worth taking a look at. He’s only 22 years old and played for the Pelicans the last three years. He’s another big man who doesn’t stretch the floor — but Diallo does offer an explosive presence around the rim. In looking at his per 36 numbers, he averaged 1.3 blocks and 13.3 rebounds in 2018-19. If he’s desperate for a home, it might be worth it the Celtics to sell Diallo on Boston.